Understanding the genetics behind glaucoma
Official title: Foundational Biology of Glaucoma GWAS Loci
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-11041037 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes might play a role in glaucoma, a serious eye condition that can cause blindness, to help find new ways to treat it beyond just lowering eye pressure.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $639,200 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY035679-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11041037 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a family history of glaucoma or those diagnosed with primary open angle glaucoma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with glaucoma who do not have a genetic predisposition or those with other types of glaucoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors contributing to glaucoma, a serious eye disease that can lead to irreversible blindness. By analyzing specific genetic loci associated with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), the study aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that increase the risk of developing this condition. The approach involves genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) linked to glaucoma and their effects on nearby genes. This research seeks to provide insights that could lead to new treatment strategies beyond current therapies that only target intraocular pressure.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective therapies for glaucoma that address its genetic risk factors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using genome-wide association studies has successfully identified genetic risk factors for various diseases, suggesting a promising approach for understanding glaucoma.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Anderson, Michael G — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Anderson, Michael G
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Understanding how glaucoma genes control eye cell function
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.